3rd Gen Tundra Ownership

Hi All,

Long time Toyota owner here who is considering a 3rd gen Tundra (TRD pro or off-road) for next vehicle. A few areas of concern that I was looking for feedback on (preferably from those who have owned both 2nd gen and 3rd gen):

• Off-road - I certainly agree that the 3rd gen is a step forward in many regards (locking rear diff, fully boxed frame, rear coils, updated traction aids). However, I do see some backward steps too (lack of tow hooks, lower ground clearance, rocker panels which appear to sit lower relative to frame rails). The Ground clearance for TRD Pro 3rd gen seems especially compromised compared to 2nd gen (8.5in vs 10.6) - not sure why Toyota was willing to accept that in the new design. As well, front bumper appears to have significant overhang (and reduced approach angle) compared to 2nd gen.
• Durability of hybrid system - how much durability does the hybrid power system have in the elements (below freezing temperatures, exposure to water and mud)? I am impressed with how Toyota implemented the hybrid power train compared to other 1/2 ton OEMs, but I do wonder what, if any, compromises exist with that system.
• Reliability of turbo engine - again, I have a lot of faith and respect for the engineering that went into the 3.5l turbo. I have heard of some reliability issues with the engine - what are the top issues and how common are they?
• Fuel capacity - 32 gallons for newer gen as compared to 38 gallons for previous gen. 5.7l im sure is thirstier. Is there any loss of range with the smaller tank (towing or unloaded)?

I realize the above discussion points might come across as negative and skeptical towards the newer generation. No offense intended to anyone who is happy with their purchase decision. I’m simply trying to gather some feedback on the above concerns and hopefully gain some insight and perspective from others.

Thanks in advance!

 

According to Toyotas head engineer - nope. No loss in range generally speaking due to how much better the fuel economy is on the TTV6.

 

Seems Toyota was more trying to get this truck more in line with the global needs rather than the needs of America since they based it off their TNGA-F global platform? No clue but definitely less capable offroad in some ways but more in others. Luckily an aftermarket bumper with tow hooks, a lift and bigger tires solves the issues for the most part. Just be aware ground clearance, articulation and turning radius are worse than the previous generation when playing in the dirt.

As you probably know, Toyota has been making hybrid cars for a long time. Many of these have hundreds of thousands of miles on them using the original battery. The compromises are mpgs aren't that much better than the standard TTV6, more complexity and more power could break stuff depending how hard you offroad

Reliability of the turbo engine? Earliest 2022 Tundra models had some wastegate issues but it seems Toyota has fixed the problem because I haven't heard any issues lately. This engine has been around since 2017 in the Lexus LS500.

 

• Off Road – every truck can be modded. I do think the 3rd gen needs more invested in it to make it shine off road, and for all the reasons you mentioned. How much will you really be going off road? If not that much, but you really want something built for it, maybe a clean, older Tundra that you could build out would make sense? I didn't want to have a separate daily driver, so my truck is mildly built and performs very well. I fit 285/75R18s on OEM suspension no problem.

• Hybrid system – Toyota has been doing hybrids for a long time. That said, going slow off-road is not going to help you out in terms of charging the battery the way the hybrid wants to be charged (while cruising or braking over a longer period of deceleration). I don't think it will necessarily shine off road.

• Turbo reliability – lots of emotions on both sides of this issue. One the one hand, it's made by Toyota, just like all other Tundras. There's a lot to be said for that. And there is an argument to be made that internet chatter has greatly exaggerated the frequency and severity of the issues. On the other hand, it is objectively more complicated and harder on itself than the old school v8, and in the unlikely event that you come down with an issue, your truck may sit for weeks waiting on parts. One guy on here qualified for a lemon law because they couldn't get a front coilover to him within four weeks. Extenuating circumstances and all that. Only you can decide what's best for you.

• Range – I think for most, the newer truck is probably higher. I get 16 combined in my truck. If I drained a 38 gal tank, that's 608 miles. Lots of guys report 19 combined on the 3rd gen. Guess what range that gives you with the 32 gal tank on the new truck? Also 608 miles. Your mileage may literally vary.